Zack Knight: Founder at ATLVets.org Advancing the Line for Military Veterans

Episode Summary

Zack Knight, founder of ATLVets.org, discusses the challenges veterans face in transitioning to civilian life. He emphasizes the importance of the four pillars: marketing, mindset, movement, and money management. Knight shares his own experience of being medically retired at 32 and the difficulties he faced. He highlights the need for programs that support high-achieving veterans, offering professional development and networking opportunities. ATLVets.org collaborates with corporations like UPS, Home Depot, and Delta, and emphasizes the importance of veterans having "skin in the game" through paid programs.

Introduction and Purpose of ATLVets.org

• Brad introduces the podcast and the guest, Zack Knight, founder of ATLVets.org.
• Brad expresses admiration for military personnel and veterans, emphasizing their transition back into society.
• Zack shares his personal experience of a difficult transition out of the military and the lack of support for veterans.
• Zack explains the mission of ATLVets.org to help high-achieving veterans continue their success post-military.

Zack's Military Background and Injury

• Zack recounts his military career, including being active duty, having several businesses, and being medically retired at 32 due to nerve damage.
• He describes the feeling of being "kicked out" and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life.
• Zack emphasizes the need for a continuity plan for veterans, especially those with significant military careers.
• He highlights the importance of making the transition relatable to civilians and understanding the unique challenges veterans face.

Four Pillars of ATLVets.org

• Zack introduces the four pillars of ATLVets.org: marketing, mindset, movement, and money management.
• He explains how these pillars address the key struggles veterans face in civilian life.
• Zack compares the transition challenges of veterans to those of professional athletes and first responders.
• He emphasizes the importance of teaching veterans how to market themselves, manage their mindset, and maintain their physical health.

Corporate Support and Challenges

• Brad and Zack discuss the importance of corporate support for veteran programs.
• Zack mentions key corporate partners like UPS, Home Depot, Delta, and Truist, which have strong military programming.
• Zack highlights the challenges of gaining corporate support for veteran programs, especially during times of peace.
• He emphasizes the need for veterans to be held accountable and empowered in the corporate world.

Personal Stories and Challenges

• Zack shares a personal story about his wife, Taylor, and her role in the fitness program of ATLVets.org.
• He describes the importance of team-based workouts and the psychological benefits of physical activity.
• Zack and Brad discuss the challenges veterans face in finding purpose and identity after leaving the military.
• They emphasize the importance of maintaining a routine and finding new passions to avoid depression and suicide.

Veteran Programs and Their Effectiveness

• Brad and Zack discuss the numerous veteran programs available and the challenges of measuring their effectiveness.
• Zack criticizes the culture of "Free for Vets" and the entitlement mentality it fosters.
• They highlight the need for programs that require veterans to invest in their own development.
• Zack emphasizes the importance of mentorship and networking in helping veterans succeed in the corporate world.

The Role of Education and Continuous Learning

• Zack and Brad discuss the importance of continuous education and self-investment in personal development.
• Zack shares his own journey of obtaining an MBA and the value of paying for coaches and mentors.
• They emphasize the need for veterans to adapt to the corporate world's expectations and structures.
• Zack highlights the importance of communication skills and networking in achieving professional success.

The Importance of Relatability and Networking

• Zack and Brad discuss the importance of being relatable and understanding different perspectives.
• They emphasize the value of networking and building relationships in the corporate world.
• Zack shares his experience of learning to communicate better through couples therapy.
• They highlight the need for veterans to understand high net worth individuals and how to network effectively.

The Role of ATL Vets.org in Supporting Veterans

• Zack explains the structure and goals of ATLVets.org, including their focus on high-achieving veterans.
• He describes the various programs and events offered by ATLVets.org, including virtual and in-person workshops.
• Zack emphasizes the importance of revenue generation and the need for veterans to take action and invest in their own development.
• He highlights the role of civilian supporters and the importance of including them in the programs.

Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

• Brad and Zack discuss the importance of investing in one's own education and continuous learning.
• Zack emphasizes the need for veterans to take a tactical pause and have grace with themselves.
• They highlight the importance of genuine interest and curiosity in building relationships and achieving success.
• Zack encourages listeners to visit ATLVets.org and get involved in their programs to support veterans in their transition to civilian life.